Dark Mullein

I came across this in the same spot as the toadflax – in a rather scrubby area climbing up the Trundle from the south side. They like to grow in rough or disturbed ground. I thought the name must have a German origin, but it seems to have originated from old French moleine which comes from the Latin mollis meaning soft – referring to the sofy furry leaves. However the dark mullein’s leaves are not soft and furry. Look at the next entry of the Great Mullein!